Brian Olson and Mitch Olson
Co-Owners at Olson Custom Designs
Technology, team building, and partnerships keep the Olson brothers coming back to IMTS, a place to share their passion for manufacturing. Read More
Automation
Automation transforms manufacturing by enhancing efficiency, safety, and precision. From robotics to advanced software, it optimizes operations, reduces downtime, and addresses labor challenges. With more than four million industrial robots in use worldwide, automation continues to grow, powering industries of all sizes and securing a competitive edge in the global economy.
- Automation continues to make manufacturing more efficient, safer, and innovative.
- It helps close the skills gap and makes production more predictable.
- Automation goes beyond just robotics. It can be about using software to improve operations or better tool changing to reduce downtime. Helps improve feeds and speeds.
- Adoption of robotics and other forms of automation have been steadily increasing now.
- Over 4 million industrial robots in operation around the world and installations have regularly been above 500K units per year since 2020. Forecasts predict this number will continue to grow as manufacturers confront labor challenges.
- Asia is top market, followed by Europe, followed by Americas.
- United States accounts for 68% of the industrial robot installations in the Americas. It accounted for 7% of robot installations globally in 2023, ranking third behind China (51% and Japan (9%).
Meet the People Building Automation Solutions
Scott Harms & Chad Oswald
President and Director of Engineering at MetalQuest
Precision manufacturer MetalQuest started up a second location, using the pandemic pause as an opportunity to expand markets and opportunities including equipping its new shop in Idaho. Read More
The Leaders Driving Innovation in Robotics and Automation
In the fast-evolving world of automation and robotics, fresh perspectives and pioneering minds are shaping the future of manufacturing and technology. Read More
Mike Payne
President at Hill Manufacturing
Automation Provides Solid Foundation for Hill Manufacturing
Visiting IMTS inspired Mike Payne to focus on automation and digitization, helping him increase efficiencies and grow Hill Manufacturing. Read More
Dive into the Latest Digital Manufacturing Processes
The Curious History of Robots
Our shared history with robotics may hint at our continued future. Once thought of as products, and then perhaps free agents, and then even colleague cooperators, robots are becoming more integrated into our everyday lives.
By Andra Keay
Where Human-Driven Pride Meets Robotic Excellence
Meet the folks who keep more than 900 robots moving in the Stellantis' Detroit Assembly Complex – Jefferson, home of the Jeep® Grand Cherokee and Dodge Durango, in Season 3, Episode 1 of “Road Trippin' with Steve.”
By Stephen LaMarca
What's Next for Automation
“Where can you find automation at IMTS?” – is better rephrased as “Where won't you find automation?” Start with the Automation Sector, accelerated by SPS – smart production solutions.
By Michelle Edmonson
In Case You Missed It
Explore Solutions for Your Business
A Deep Dive into Cobots and Robotics in Manufacturing
Cobots are transforming manufacturing by boosting productivity, safety, and flexibility. Explore their real-world applications, safety tips, and how to scale automation effectively.
Apptronik: The ONE Big Thing
Apptronik is the leader in next-generation general purpose robots designed to change the way we live and work. Apollo, a humanoid robot built to work alongside people in environments designed for people, culminated from the design and development of over 10 general purpose robots including extensive work on NASA Valkyrie.
Cleaning Technologies Group: The ONE Big Thing
Cleaning Technologies Group is the industry leader in parts cleaning equipment and ultrasonic cleaning equipment for a vast number of applications. We have been providing industrial parts washers and custom ultrasonic cleaning solutions to industrial and precision parts manufacturers for over 100 years. We've had experience with nearly every kind of parts cleaning application and can provide our customers with the latest cleaning technology available.
Big Daishowa: The ONE Big Thing
BIG DAISHOWA Inc. is a global leader in high-precision tooling systems and solutions for the metalcutting industry. Manufactured with materials and craftsmanship that enable superior performance, our products guarantee extreme accuracy and repeatability.
Zayer: The ONE Big Thing
ZAYER has been manufacturing milling machines and milling centers in Vitoria- Gasteiz with the highest quality and most advanced technology. We provide our customers the best value with the continuous development of new technologies and customised solutions adapting to their needs.
